Ecological Showcase

A showcase for Wellington’s green infrastructure and quality built form

Wellington’s central city should be an example of sustainable 21st century urban living, both ecologically sensitive to its environment and forward-looking. There are opportunities to incorporate more green infrastructure into the central city. This is in keeping with Wellington’s aspiration to become an eco-city and will contribute to Wellington becoming a model for sustainable living.

Green infrastructure is the interconnected network of open spaces and natural areas, such as parks, reserves, wetlands and native plant vegetation, that naturally manages storm water, reduces flooding risk and improves water quality.

Wellington’s buildings should also reflect an eco-city ethos, meeting strong environmental standards and providing high levels of comfort for building users while minimising use of energy and water.

Buildings should be designed with the landscape, streetscape and neighbours in mind. The regulatory model should be clear and managed in way that provides certainty for developers, occupiers, neighbours and for future generations.

The overall aims should be those of increased amenity, more efficient use of land and greener building standards. Design and construction should also take into account emergent technologies and the ability to more easily adapt buildings for change uses over time. Innovations such as solar energy, rainwater harvesting and green walls and roofs should become commonplace. Areas of the city could become showcases for leading-edge green development.

Showcasing Wellington’s green infrastructure and quality built form will need:

Encouragement of green infrastructure developments

A clear regulatory model that supports the development of quality built form

Support for the uptake of emergent technologies, aligned with Wellington’s goal to be an eco-city